The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has rejected the adoption of a Muslim-Muslim ticket for elective offices ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that Nigeria’s religious and ethnic diversity must be reflected in the country’s political leadership to promote unity and national cohesion.

The Christian body made its position known in a communiqué issued after its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting and signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Sylvanus Ukafia. The statement comes after the All Progressives Congress (APC) adopted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, both Muslims, as its presidential ticket for the 2027 election.

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According to the PFN, while it remains committed to Nigeria’s unity, peace and progress, inclusive governance is essential for fostering trust and ensuring every segment of the population has a sense of belonging.

“The PFN reiterates its unwavering commitment to the unity, peace, and progress of Nigeria. We remain convinced that our nation can only flourish where justice, equity, the rule of law, and respect for the Constitution prevail,” the communiqué stated.

The fellowship maintained that Nigeria’s multi-religious and multi-ethnic character should be reflected in its leadership.

“The PFN does not support the adoption of a Muslim-Muslim ticket for elective public office. Nigeria is a multi-religious and multi-ethnic nation whose diversity should be reflected in its leadership. Inclusive governance promotes national unity, mutual trust, and a sense of belonging among all citizens,” the statement added.

The PFN also urged political leaders to ensure that governance arrangements do not create perceptions of exclusion among any religious or ethnic group.

Beyond the political issue, the fellowship opposed any proposed legislation or policy that could restrict Christian preaching, arguing that such measures would violate constitutional guarantees on freedom of religion, expression and peaceful assembly.

“The PFN strongly opposes any law or policy that seeks to ban or unduly restrict Christian preaching,” it stated.

While acknowledging the government’s responsibility to maintain public order, the fellowship stressed that regulations should never become instruments for suppressing legitimate religious expression or infringing on fundamental human rights.

The PFN further called on all arms and levels of government to uphold the Constitution, protect the rights of every Nigerian regardless of religious affiliation and avoid enacting laws that discriminate against any faith community.

It also appealed to Christians across the country to remain peaceful, law-abiding and steadfast while exercising their constitutional rights responsibly, urging believers to avoid violence and provocation.

In addition, the fellowship advocated sustained dialogue among government, religious leaders and civil society organisations on issues affecting national unity, describing Nigeria’s diversity as a strength that should be nurtured rather than a source of division.

The PFN reaffirmed its commitment to praying for the nation and working with all stakeholders to build a peaceful, just and prosperous Nigeria where every citizen enjoys equal protection under the law.